It says: "Rain will affect large areas of Northumberland over the weekend and into Monday, turning heavier during the second half of Sunday, as well as more persistent. Please be aware of the risk of localised flooding. This is an update to bring forward the start of the period during which flooding impacts become more likely."

The chief forecaster at the Met Office added: "Frontal systems will affect the county through the weekend, becoming more active during Sunday and at times on Monday. Rainfall totals over the 30-hour period from the middle of Sunday afternoon seem likely to be around 40 to 60 mm quite widely and perhaps in excess of 80 mm across the Cheviots."

Further north in the Grampian, Central, Tayside and Fife areas of Scotland north of Edinburgh, an amber 'Be Prepared' warning has been issued for today through to Monday evening.